Mark Bergel, Ph.D.

Dr. Bergel founded A Wider Circle in 2001 and has emerged as a leader in the movement to end poverty. He is a nationally acclaimed speaker in the fields of poverty, health, and social connection and has been featured on national television and radio programs. Dr. Bergel earned a B.A. from Northwestern University and went on to receive both Masters and Doctoral degrees from American University.

Dr. Bergel’s efforts to end poverty have led to his selection as Washingtonian of the Year by Washingtonian Magazine and as a 2014 CNN Hero. He has also been named one of PEOPLE Magazine and Major League Baseball’s “All‐Stars Among Us,” recognizing individuals who have made incredible contributions in their communities. He has also received the Dr. Augustus White III Award for Civic Engagement and Service, the Andrea Jolly President’s Award, the Essence of Leadership Award, and the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region’s Linowes Leadership Award. Dr. Bergel also sits on the Board of Leadership Greater Washington.